A vital part of every child’s day should be vigorous physical activity. It has a positive effect on children’s growth, mental health, weight management, and behavior by relieving excess energy, stress, and boredom. Involving the family is just as important. Their involvement creates a bridge between school and home and fosters the establishment of a community.

Imagine you have been asked to coordinate a family fitness night at your place of employment (e.g., childcare center, preschool, elementary school) that focuses on the development of gross and fine motor skills of young children through fitness, movement, and play.

Part 1: Planning a Family Fitness Night

Create a 500-750 word plan for the family fitness night to share with colleagues and volunteers who will help at the event. Include the following in your plan:

Description of the environment and targeted ages for the family night

Detailed descriptions of three activities/stations

Learning objectives or outcomes for the activities, including collaboration with families

Gross and fine motor skills that each activity targets and an explanation of how the activities are developmentally appropriate

How each activity could be differentiated for children with disabilities, physical limitations, or developmental delays

How each activity could be modified to support children at a different age range, either older or younger than your targeted ages

Part 2: Reflection

In 150-200 words, reflect on the value and purpose of movement and play in the development of young children and how you plan to effectively incorporate them into your future professional practice. 

Support your plan and reflection with 2-3 scholarly resources.   

Submit your plan, reflection, and scholarly resources in a single document.